Whittaker’s big UFC test
AFTER tearing through his last six opponents, Robert Whittaker is right on the verge of breaking into the elite of the UFC’s middleweight division.
And the New Zealand-born, Australian-raised knockout specialist is not about to let the chance pass him by.
Whittaker faces the toughest test of his career in Kansas City today when he squares off against world No 3 Ronaldo ‘Jacare’ Souza.
But the bigger the challenge, the greater the reward and not only would victory elevate ‘The Reaper’ into the top five of the rankings, it would also put him in the discussion for a shot at the title, currently held by Englishman Michael Bisping.
At just 26, Whittaker has a long career ahead of him but opportunities like these do not come around very often.
Although, if he was feeling overawed by what is at stake, he certainly wasn’t showing it.
‘‘No any additional pressure than what I normally feel for a fight,’’ Whittaker said.
‘‘I’ve been preparing as usual, just trying to make my strengths stronger and strengthen up my weaknesses.
‘‘I need this fight to help me grow as a fighter and to help further my career and I look forward to testing myself on this opponent.’’
Whittaker is in a confident mood and he has every right to be.
The sixth-ranked middleweight put his rivals on notice last November with a stunning TKO of Derek Brunson in Melbourne, when he calmly saw off a wild opening onslaught by the American before dropping him to the canvas late in the first round.
Yet being entirely based in Australia, and in a crowded division that has only got stronger by the return of legend Georges StPierre, it is fair to say he has been flying under the radar.
That will change if he beats Souza.
A former Strikeforce champion, Souza’s (24-4) grappling ability is second to none, with 17 of his wins achieved by submission.
Even at 37, he remains an outstanding athlete and is highly regarded by UFC president Dana White, who has just signed the Brazilian to a new eight-fight deal.
‘‘He’s one of the best middleweights in the world and has the potential to be a world champion, so he belongs in the UFC,’’ White told MMAjunkie.
‘‘I am pumped to see him fight another potential titleholder in Whittaker.’’
It will be a clash of contrasting styles with Souza’s prowess on the ground versus Whittaker’s speed and striking ability.
But while he starts as a clear underdog, that matters little to Whittaker who has no doubt he can go to another level.
‘‘I’ve just got better across the board,’’ he said of his growth over GETTY IMAGES the last six fights.
‘‘All my skill-sets have grown, my experience in the octagon has grown. I honestly just think I’m getting better with every fight.
‘‘I’ve got a winning formula at the moment. The prep’s been amazing, it’s the best it’s ever been and I’m looking forward to stepping into the octagon.’’